HP / Agilent 81578A Variable Optical Attenuator Module for Multimode Fiber Applications
The HP/Agilent 81578A is a variable optical attenuator module designed for multimode fiber applications. It provides precise and adjustable attenuation of optical signals, making it suitable for testing and characterization of optical components and systems. This module offers a wide attenuation range and high resolution, ensuring accurate and reliable performance in various optical setups.
- Model
- HP / Agilent 81578A
- Calibration
- Available on request
- Price
- $3,042
- Status
- In stock
- RFQ ref
- 81578A
This unit
The HP/Agilent 81578A is a variable optical attenuator module designed for multimode fiber applications within Agilent's Lightwave Solution Platform. It delivers precise, adjustable attenuation of optical signals across a wide wavelength range with high resolution and low insertion loss. The module supports 50 µm and 62.5 µm fiber interfaces and integrates directly into compatible mainframes for component and system characterization in telecom and data communication testing.
Technical Specifications
Fiber Type: Multimode fiber; 50 µm or 62.5 µm core diameter
Wavelength Range: 700 nm to 1400 nm
Attenuation Range: 0 to 60 dB
Attenuation Resolution: 0.001 dB (typical)
Maximum Input Power: +27 dBm (2 Watts)
Insertion Loss: <1.4 dB (typical); <1.3 dB at NA = 0.2
Return Loss: 27 dB (typical, flat polished connectors)
Wavelength Flatness: Excellent across operational range
Key Features
Modular Integration: Single-slot plug-in module for Agilent 8163A/B, 8164A/B, and 8166A/B mainframes
Integrated Shutter: Built-in shutter for test equipment protection, simplified referencing, power meter zeroing, and channel drop simulation
Internal Calibration: Enhanced calibration function enables reference power setting and displays attenuation and power levels relative to that reference
Power Control: Configurations available with active power control to maintain specific output power levels and compensate for input power variations
Typical Applications
Optical network component characterization
System-level testing in telecommunications environments
Data communication signal attenuation and power management
Multi-wavelength power reference and measurement applications
Compatibility & Integration The 81578A operates within Agilent's Lightwave Solution Platform via internal bus architecture. It utilizes standard Agilent optical interface connectors, including Option 062 for 62.5 µm MMF with PC connectors. The 8166A/B mainframe can accommodate up to 17 single-slot modules. Remote control capability is supported.
Specifications
| Parameter | Value |
|---|---|
| Power Range (dBm) | '+27 dBm maximum input | Wavelength Range: 700 nm to 1400 nm |
HP / Agilent 81578A — Repair & Calibration Service
Aumictech offers NIST-traceable calibration and repair for the HP / Agilent 81578A. Calibration covers attenuation accuracy at 5 or more set values across the full range (0 to rated maximum dB), attenuation linearity, wavelength-dependent attenuation at 1310 nm, 1490 nm, and 1550 nm, insertion loss at minimum attenuation (0 dB position), and polarization-dependent loss (PDL) where applicable. All calibrations ship with a NIST-traceable certificate. Turnaround is typically 1–3 business days after receipt.
Common HP / Agilent 81578A faults: motor and gear mechanism wear (attenuation steps or loss of smooth control), optical port contamination, EEPROM calibration data corruption. Most common faults are motor or gear mechanism wear on variable attenuators causing attenuation steps or loss of smooth control, optical port contamination reducing dynamic range, and EEPROM calibration data corruption on digitally controlled models.
HP / Agilent 81578A price
This HP / Agilent 81578A is listed at $3,041.8. Calibration is available separately from $450. Contact us for volume pricing or if you need multiple units.
HP / Agilent 81578A calibration cost
NIST-traceable calibration for the HP / Agilent 81578A is $450 (standard — pass/fail certificate and calibration sticker) or $650 (full measured data at every test point, reference standards documented, traceability chain included). Calibration for this instrument covers attenuation accuracy at 5 or more set values across the full range (0 to rated maximum dB), attenuation linearity, wavelength-dependent attenuation at 1310 nm, 1490 nm, and 1550 nm, insertion loss at minimum attenuation (0 dB position), and polarization-dependent loss (PDL) where applicable. Turnaround is 1 to 3 business days after receipt. See full calibration details →
